BLE to Feature Keynote from ViacomCBS

ViacomCBS Consumer Products is set to present the second-day keynote at Brand Licensing Europe (BLE) focusing on diversity and inclusion, as well as its own toy research.

Mark Kingston, senior VP of international, will lead the keynote and review the impact on culture, community and industry when there’s a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging. Ameeta Held, VP of insights and business strategy, will detail the importance of authentic representation in dolls and the impact on choice while referencing original toy research.

The keynote will take place in person at BLE on November 18 from 1 to 2 p.m.

Ahead of the keynote, representatives from Black Lives Matter Licensing U.K. will talk about the group’s purpose, goals and activity in the sector to date.

Kingston said: “As an organization, we are dedicated to creating content that reflects the global audiences we serve, and within consumer products, we are especially committed to ensuring our products are inclusive and representative. Our latest research shines a light on the important role our industry plays in our continued conversation around diversity and inclusion, and I look forward to presenting our thoughts and findings alongside my colleagues at BLE.”

Anna Knight, VP of licensing at Informa Markets, said: “It’s not possible to underestimate the importance of this keynote to our industry, and I implore everyone who is attending BLE to pre-register now and secure a spot. Consumer Products has a huge responsibility—and opportunity—to represent, embrace and empower diversity if we are to build a more inclusive and equal future for consumers across the world.”

ViacomCBS is one of more than 150 exhibitors currently confirmed for BLE, which will take place in person from November 17 to 19, followed by an online event from November 30 to December 1.